I’ve actually had several blogs I wanted to do for some time, but my time has gotten away. Plus, having an issue with my internet working intermittently has made it a bit difficcult. Can you believe we are on Day 67?
Habakkuk 1:1-5
The Prophet’s Question
2 O LORD, how long shall I cry,
And You will not hear?
Even cry out to You, “Violence!”
And You will not save.
3 Why do You show me iniquity,
And cause me to see trouble?
For plundering and violence are before me;
There is strife, and contention arises.
4 Therefore the law is powerless,
And justice never goes forth.
For the wicked surround the righteous;
Therefore perverse judgment proceeds.
The LORD’s Reply
5 “ Look among the nations and watch—
Be utterly astounded!
For I will work a work in your days
Which you would not believe, though it were told you.
The scripture this morning reminded me of the song, Hold My Heart.
Do you often wonder how long you must cry out for help? How much more time you will spend in prayer and anguish over a situation? Do you ponder the new “trends” of our society? Habakkuk is pouring his heart out to God. He is seeking God’s answer to why God is “tolerating the wrong?” Do you often wonder the same questions? Lately, I have really searched out and asked God WHY has my family had to endure the current situations were are facing, and it is a wonderful feeling to know I can approach my God, pouring out my heart, my brokenness to Him. His answer was exactly what I needed to read today- WATCH and be UTTTERLY AMAZED! Lord, I am watching and I will choose to be amazed. Let me be amazed by your glory, your holiness, and your sovereign ways. Each time I wonder where is God in our situation, he speaks clearly to my heart, Let me be God!
Showing posts with label 90 Day Bible Challenge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 90 Day Bible Challenge. Show all posts
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Bible in 90 Days. . .Jonah

Day 66: Looking at Jonah. . .
I am always amazed when I reread Jonah. It makes me stop and think about myself. How often do I fail to listen to what God’s plan is and choose to take on my own plan? How many people do I fail to share- and show- Christ to everyday? Am I currently on my own cycle and not allowing God to use me in whatever manner He has chosen? Do you avoid going on that mission trip, heading to another country or to the local homeless shelter? Do you put your calendar of appointments and “being late” ahead of stopping to give the neighbor a hand? Do you avoid encouraging others to find God by not showing Jesus in your daily life? Are you willing to go to church on Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday, but failing to open His word- seeking his will- the other days of the week?
Jonah is a good example of not being in God’s will by his own personal choice. If we are not in God’s will, we certainly will not be able to accomplish all he has planned for our lives. I am not saying that the mission trip will not have participants, that the church Sunday school class won’t be taught, or the neighbor’s grass won’t be mowed. No, instead, I am telling you about how many blessings you will miss if you are not part of the plan. If this is by choice, you will fail to be blessed beyond your wildest dreams. Jonah paid lifelong consequences for his failure to follow God’s will and I believe the same thing can happen to us. Following God’s will is clearly where I would like to be, how about you?
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Bible in 90 days: Hannah
Today, being Mother's Day, I spent some time reflecting on Hannah and Samuel. Primarily, Hannah's prayer of desire. I love the following verses:
15 "Not so, my lord," Hannah replied, "I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD. 16 Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief." (Samuel 1:15-16)
How many times do we desire something, but fail to pour out our soul to God? How often do you think of a want or a need and fail to bring that to Christ? Maybe it is for a child, marriage, a child to come to know Christ, a different job, or for healing. Maybe you are so distraught you are unsure of what to pray for or how to pray. Maybe you are seeking the Lord on a dear friend's behalf.
Whatever your desire of your heart, God will bless you with it. Now, it may not be exactly how you had imagined it as God's plan is always perfect. It may not be in your time, as God's timing is perfect. . .But, God's word clearly promises if we "Delight [ourselves]in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
Have you poured out your heart to God today? He's so ready to listen. He desires to have an intimate conversation with you.
15 "Not so, my lord," Hannah replied, "I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD. 16 Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief." (Samuel 1:15-16)
How many times do we desire something, but fail to pour out our soul to God? How often do you think of a want or a need and fail to bring that to Christ? Maybe it is for a child, marriage, a child to come to know Christ, a different job, or for healing. Maybe you are so distraught you are unsure of what to pray for or how to pray. Maybe you are seeking the Lord on a dear friend's behalf.
Whatever your desire of your heart, God will bless you with it. Now, it may not be exactly how you had imagined it as God's plan is always perfect. It may not be in your time, as God's timing is perfect. . .But, God's word clearly promises if we "Delight [ourselves]in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
Have you poured out your heart to God today? He's so ready to listen. He desires to have an intimate conversation with you.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Bible in 90 days. . . Talking about the Ten. . .
As I was reading this week, I really stopped to think about the Ten Commandments. Now, my thoughts really focused more on number four. . .
I'm going to post them all as I think we always can use a good review- just to look at each on individually and pray about each one. Do you honor them? Do you obey them? Do you know them?
Exodus 20
The Ten Commandments
1 And God spoke all these words:
2 "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
3 "You shall have no other gods before [a] me.
4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.
7 "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
12 "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
13 "You shall not murder.
14 "You shall not commit adultery.
15 "You shall not steal.
16 "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
17 "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
18 When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance 19 and said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die."
20 Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning."
In my reading this go around, I've been praying for God to reveal any area of my life that I am not being obedient, that I am not following His commandments.
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
I go to church, I sing and worship. . . I spend time volunteering when needed in the various services. . . but, when I come home. . .I clean my house, I may wash laundry, I may watch or go to the movies, I may do housework, complete CEs, or even working extra, etc. Yet, is this keeping the Sabbath holy? No, this is keeping a list of "things" I need to accomplish and if I didn't complete it on Saturday, the list goes over to Sunday. . .
It really stirred my heart. My mind's focus is often on a checklist verses God's list. If I really open up my mind I would realize that God's list is always keeping my best interest at heart. He didn't mess it up. We need a day of both rest and worship. He knows that in order to be true servants, our bodies need to be refueled by both God's word and fellowship with brothers/sisters in Christ as well as to be refueled on rest. Our bodies need this. And, it is disobedient on my part when my list overtakes HIS PLAN.
I'm going to post them all as I think we always can use a good review- just to look at each on individually and pray about each one. Do you honor them? Do you obey them? Do you know them?
Exodus 20
The Ten Commandments
1 And God spoke all these words:
2 "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
3 "You shall have no other gods before [a] me.
4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.
7 "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
12 "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
13 "You shall not murder.
14 "You shall not commit adultery.
15 "You shall not steal.
16 "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
17 "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
18 When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance 19 and said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die."
20 Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning."
In my reading this go around, I've been praying for God to reveal any area of my life that I am not being obedient, that I am not following His commandments.
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
I go to church, I sing and worship. . . I spend time volunteering when needed in the various services. . . but, when I come home. . .I clean my house, I may wash laundry, I may watch or go to the movies, I may do housework, complete CEs, or even working extra, etc. Yet, is this keeping the Sabbath holy? No, this is keeping a list of "things" I need to accomplish and if I didn't complete it on Saturday, the list goes over to Sunday. . .
It really stirred my heart. My mind's focus is often on a checklist verses God's list. If I really open up my mind I would realize that God's list is always keeping my best interest at heart. He didn't mess it up. We need a day of both rest and worship. He knows that in order to be true servants, our bodies need to be refueled by both God's word and fellowship with brothers/sisters in Christ as well as to be refueled on rest. Our bodies need this. And, it is disobedient on my part when my list overtakes HIS PLAN.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
90 day Bible Challenge: Genesis 1:27
27 So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.
In his image. . . WOW! I have lways loved this verse. It amazes me that my God choose to make each and every person in his image. We are all his children. Whether it is the beautiful model whose eyes take your breath away, the child with a birth "defect," the man who runs by your house, the guy who takes your money at the drive through window, the person who checks you out at the grocery store, the surgeon who saves your life, and the newborn you hold close.
God creates each person in his image. Have you stopped to realize that today? Have you stopped to think how your reaction to each encounter may change an person's outlook, their day, their ability to realize how loved and cherished they are?
I'm really excited about the 90 Days! Keep up the reading.
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.
In his image. . . WOW! I have lways loved this verse. It amazes me that my God choose to make each and every person in his image. We are all his children. Whether it is the beautiful model whose eyes take your breath away, the child with a birth "defect," the man who runs by your house, the guy who takes your money at the drive through window, the person who checks you out at the grocery store, the surgeon who saves your life, and the newborn you hold close.
God creates each person in his image. Have you stopped to realize that today? Have you stopped to think how your reaction to each encounter may change an person's outlook, their day, their ability to realize how loved and cherished they are?
I'm really excited about the 90 Days! Keep up the reading.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The Bible in 90 Days. . .

Dear Lord,
As I sit here tonight I am humbled by your holy presence. I just flipped to the Facebook group for the 90 Days to read the bible. . . 41 people have signed up! Two others have joined who do not have Facebook. Our numbers are at 42.
Lord, I ask that you help me to be a blessing to each and every person. Help me to encourage them to stay steady in your word. Help them to feel your presence daily and may your word be alive and active in them!
Thank you for this blessing!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Bible in 90 Days. . .
Friday, April 2, 2010
90 Day Bible Challenge: Number 2 for 2010

Type: Education - Study Group
Start Time: Sunday, April 18, 2010 at 6:00am
End Time: Friday, July 16, 2010 at 9:00pm
Location: Your Home, Your Office, Wherever!
Description: This group is designed to challenge you to read The Bible in 90 days! You may think you are unable to complete this task; however, by reading 12 pages a day, you can.
Most Christians have never read the entire bible, most would like to. This plan helps you to successfully complete the task. . . while joining a fun group!
Group members will receive encouragement along the way, enjoy posts written by the administrators to facilitate deeper thought, and share in a fun, yet growth experience.
Sign up below as we embark upon this challenge for a second time this year! It changed my life so much, that I have decided to facilitate a second group this year!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Forgiveness. . .Counting your Blessings.

So, I am way behind in writing on the Bible in 90 days.
I recently went back to this part of scripture and wanted to share some thoughts about this passage. God placed it on my heart a few weeks ago that I needed to be reminded of this passage in a certain situation.
Matthew 5:43-48
Love for Enemies
43"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Oh, how often do we fail at this one! How often do I fail to forgive? How often do I fail to love my enemy? No matter how small or large the offense, one must choose forgiveness. That person may never realize the pain and suffering they caused you. However, none of that matter. In my prayer time, God frequently will make my mind think about his son dying a bloody, horrible, painful death on the cross. Literally, each time I go through a crisis or when I think that I cannot handle any more, God lets me see this picture.
Today, I was driving down Arlington and I noticed a man in a wheelchair in the center lane. Arlington is a busy, busy highway for those that are not in the area. This man did not have all of his limbs- he was missing his legs. My mind immediately thought to pray for him and my heart said- All of our trials lately are not that bad. I've been sick the past few days, and rather tired. Yet, I have so many things to be grateful for- so many blessings. How often do we fail to see the real picture? How often do we only see ourselves when the reality is, we are just a tiny speck in a great big world. We are loved, and God knows our name- down to the number of hairs on our head. Yet, quite often if we look around another person's problem is much bigger than ours, much more detailed, much more time consuming.
I was at Walmart last night- running a late night errand. It was around 8:30pm. I was walking to the checkout and felt someone grab me. It was one of my patients from the office. I turned around and he gave me a big hug. I was there with all my groceries in the cart and he was there with his mom, with only a few items in his cart. You see, this little boy is extra special. He moved to this area about 2 years ago- for a new start. Not long after his move, his family was in a wreck- no fault of their own. Their car was totaled. His mom now relies solely on public transportation. I know they would need to wait for the bus to go home last night. . . Typically, she leaves extra early in order to make his appointments because "she doesn't want to be late." This little boy has the biggest heart of any kid I know.
My friend Jill, is dying of ALS. Yet, she remains one of the strongest Christians I know.
My friends, Jeremy and Lindsey lost a child at 4 months of age.
The man in the wheelchair.
The homeless man I saw this weekend.
The little boy and his mom.
I could go on and on. . .Yet, each of these people make me think- you know, my life as crazy as it is, is not that bad.
Monday, February 15, 2010
The Stars. . .

Tonight, the stars amazed me as I walked out to put the trash by the curb. . . I am not 100% sure tomorrow is my trash day due to the holiday today, but about 50% of my neighbors had put theirs out, so I decided to chance it. I am so glad I did. . .As I was walking back to my house. . .(OK, confession time in my pajamas and overcoat!) I looked up at the stars. . . my mind went to the following verse from my Bible Reading. . .
Psalm 136:1-9
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good.
His love endures forever.
2 Give thanks to the God of gods.
His love endures forever.
3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords:
His love endures forever.
4 to him who alone does great wonders,
His love endures forever.
5 who by his understanding made the heavens,
His love endures forever.
6 who spread out the earth upon the waters,
His love endures forever.
7 who made the great lights—
His love endures forever.
8 the sun to govern the day,
His love endures forever.
9 the moon and stars to govern the night;
His love endures forever.
It is so true, his love endures forever. . .No matter your situation in life, no matter what is going on, no matter the issues (and there will always be issues). . .God's love endures forever. When we step away, when we feel unworthy, when we are unsure. . .God's love is always present. . .
As I was looking at the stars tonight, my mind immediately thought Wow, I would love to be on the beach, sitting there curled up in a warm blanket, coffee (Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha to be exact) looking at the stars all night. . . I haven't done that in a long time maybe I need to stop and do that soon. . . To marvel and take time to appreciate His creation. That is what I hope to do with my photography- capture a small glimpse of his beauty.It is one beautiful world despite the ugly situations that creep in from time to time and even in those situations, one can choose to find beauty. . . For, Our God's love endures forever.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Is God Steering Your Car?
I was driving today to another town for an appointment. . .I passed by a church and on the sign it said,
"God needs to be your steering wheel and not your spare tire."
Kind of gets me thinking. . . How often do I let God actually steer? How often do I opt to keep God in the trunk for when I feel I need Him? How often is God in the back of the car, while I am taking off driving on my own adventure? Certainly got my mind thinking. I do some of my best thinking while traveling and often know God is going to use this time to speak to my heart. He never fails to show up as long as I do!
Part of the reading I have completed includes Psalm 40:1-8.
1 I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD.
4 Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.
5 Many, O LORD my God,
are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us
no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them,
they would be too many to declare.
6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,
but my ears you have pierced;
burnt offerings and sin offerings
you did not require.
7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come—
it is written about me in the scroll.
8 I desire to do your will, O my God;
your law is within my heart."
"Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust." WOW! Sort of says it all. . . He needs to be driving our cars.
"Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare." This verse probably is shouting my name the loudest today. I am so blessed daily by the Lord. His mercy, his grace, his forgiving, caring way. . . He knows each of my daily steps and I am so glad he does! Each encounter is from the Lord. Have you really stopped to think about it? Each person you see on a daily basis was planned to be in your path for that day, that minute, that second. How often do I jump to a conclusion, think the worst thought, or become frustrated. Yesterday, during my lunch break, I was running some errands. On my normal daily route, one traveled many times a week, I managed to avoid a very serious accident. One Second sooner, the situation could have been very different and the potential outcome was certainly scary. I am still quite shaken by the encounter.
Yet, I am also displeased at my chosen response to the other driver (who would have been at fault). I immediately slammed on breaks and swerved to miss a car that pulled out in front of me. I blew the horn and shook my fist at this older gentleman. In retrospect, he probably did not see me (or he would have not pulled out! :) Yet, I still chose to be upset. I chose to be angry with him . . . verses realizing immediately, he did not mean to do this. I pulled into the closest parking lot after the event. I was shaking . . . I stopped to pray and ask God to bless the other driver and help him to arrive safely. I praised God for protecting me. I also praised God that I was running a few minutes late as a coworker stopped to ask me a question prior to leaving the office. God's timing is always perfect! Now, if I had not avoided the accident, would I have also praised God? I hope so.
"I desire to do your will". . . Let's see, if I truly desire to do his will, God does not need to be the spare tire? I'd better make sure I move over and make sure He's driving all the time!
"God needs to be your steering wheel and not your spare tire."

Kind of gets me thinking. . . How often do I let God actually steer? How often do I opt to keep God in the trunk for when I feel I need Him? How often is God in the back of the car, while I am taking off driving on my own adventure? Certainly got my mind thinking. I do some of my best thinking while traveling and often know God is going to use this time to speak to my heart. He never fails to show up as long as I do!
Part of the reading I have completed includes Psalm 40:1-8.
1 I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD.
4 Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.
5 Many, O LORD my God,
are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us
no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them,
they would be too many to declare.
6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,
but my ears you have pierced;
burnt offerings and sin offerings
you did not require.
7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come—
it is written about me in the scroll.
8 I desire to do your will, O my God;
your law is within my heart."
"Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust." WOW! Sort of says it all. . . He needs to be driving our cars.
"Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare." This verse probably is shouting my name the loudest today. I am so blessed daily by the Lord. His mercy, his grace, his forgiving, caring way. . . He knows each of my daily steps and I am so glad he does! Each encounter is from the Lord. Have you really stopped to think about it? Each person you see on a daily basis was planned to be in your path for that day, that minute, that second. How often do I jump to a conclusion, think the worst thought, or become frustrated. Yesterday, during my lunch break, I was running some errands. On my normal daily route, one traveled many times a week, I managed to avoid a very serious accident. One Second sooner, the situation could have been very different and the potential outcome was certainly scary. I am still quite shaken by the encounter.
Yet, I am also displeased at my chosen response to the other driver (who would have been at fault). I immediately slammed on breaks and swerved to miss a car that pulled out in front of me. I blew the horn and shook my fist at this older gentleman. In retrospect, he probably did not see me (or he would have not pulled out! :) Yet, I still chose to be upset. I chose to be angry with him . . . verses realizing immediately, he did not mean to do this. I pulled into the closest parking lot after the event. I was shaking . . . I stopped to pray and ask God to bless the other driver and help him to arrive safely. I praised God for protecting me. I also praised God that I was running a few minutes late as a coworker stopped to ask me a question prior to leaving the office. God's timing is always perfect! Now, if I had not avoided the accident, would I have also praised God? I hope so.
"I desire to do your will". . . Let's see, if I truly desire to do his will, God does not need to be the spare tire? I'd better make sure I move over and make sure He's driving all the time!
Labels:
90 Day Bible Challenge,
Blessings,
Faith Lessons
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Reading through the Psalms. . .

So I haven't blogged in a while about the Reading the Bible in 90 Days. This is from yesterday's reading. But, it did speak to me. . .
Psalm 17
A prayer of David.
1 Hear, O LORD, my righteous plea;
listen to my cry.
Give ear to my prayer—
it does not rise from deceitful lips.
2 May my vindication come from you;
may your eyes see what is right.
3 Though you probe my heart and examine me at night,
though you test me, you will find nothing;
I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.
4 As for the deeds of men—
by the word of your lips
I have kept myself
from the ways of the violent.
5 My steps have held to your paths;
my feet have not slipped.
6 I call on you, O God, for you will answer me;
give ear to me and hear my prayer.
7 Show the wonder of your great love,
you who save by your right hand
those who take refuge in you from their foes.
8 Keep me as the apple of your eye;
hide me in the shadow of your wings
9 from the wicked who assail me,
from my mortal enemies who surround me.
10 They close up their callous hearts,
and their mouths speak with arrogance.
11 They have tracked me down, they now surround me,
with eyes alert, to throw me to the ground.
12 They are like a lion hungry for prey,
like a great lion crouching in cover.
13 Rise up, O LORD, confront them, bring them down;
rescue me from the wicked by your sword.
14 O LORD, by your hand save me from such men,
from men of this world whose reward is in this life.
You still the hunger of those you cherish;
their sons have plenty,
and they store up wealth for their children.
15 And I—in righteousness I will see your face;
when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Reading through the Word. . .

I have been really slack about journeying the past few weeks. . .and I will try to do better. I'm still plugging along. I did manage to become behind for a few days during an aunt's illness as well as a my dad's surgery, but I have caught up.
I am going back a bit as we are in 2 Chronicles, but Deuteronomy 32:3-4 spoke to my heart and I wanted to share.
3 I will proclaim the name of the LORD.
Oh, praise the greatness of our God!
4 He is the Rock, his works are perfect,
and all his ways are just.
A faithful God who does no wrong,
upright and just is he.
God is so faithful. How many times do we question? How many times do we wonder? How many times do we not understand the plan? How many times does God reveal to us his plan was always right for us? How often do we ignore the fact that God is "just?" He truly is a God that loves us enough to hold us when we cry, but who will correct those areas in our lives where we hold a wordly view first and a Godly view last. He wants us to become more like him everyday.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Bible in 90 Days. . .

Well, I haven't posted in a while. . . but I have been reading. I managed to get a bit behind due to family issues and unexpected travel. . .How have I been doing with the past two weeks and rounding? Well, it has been hard. . .I spent a part of tonight catching up. .. and I am actually caught up!! YEAH! Now, my goal is to not be behind. . .that each week I will make meet the required reading. So, for example, if I am a bit behind, I will just be caught up by Sunday.
Friday, January 8, 2010
No snow. . .

So, no snow this morning. However, I will start a nice 3 day weekend after today, so I can still be happy. . .90 Days is going well. . . Through Genesis and Exodus. . . will write an update from Exodus tonight. I am loving it! I am really feeling God speak to me through this journey. . .and I praise him for that.
God is so good! In Christ alone, I place my trust!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Bible in 90 Days. . . Joseph

I am at the end of Genesis today. . . Wow, on to Exodus. . .
God has been speaking to me during this course of study and I am pretty shocked that I felt led to write a second blog today. My plan was to blog once a week. That may be the case in some books, but I assume not the case for Genesis.
A few weeks ago, I was chatting with someone about a situation my family is enduring. He told me that he felt maybe our family was like Joseph. Wow, ok, maybe we are, maybe we aren't. . . But, today's reading really helped me to see how that really could be the case. Have I always responded as Joseph did? Have I always accepted the situation or do I try to change it? Do I wait on God or do I jump in and try to escape the issues. Do I try to self manage vs. self discipline? How often do I desire to jump out and take control when God clearly has said "let me" do this? At times, way too often.
But, if we stop and look at Joseph's life. . .we can see the issues at hand. Sold into slavery; falsely accused; imprisoned; told by the cup bearer he would "remember him" when he went to Pharaoh's house; forgotten by the cup bearer for 2 years; remembered by the cup bearer when Pharaoh has a dream; restored to a rightful place; saw his father after many years.
Can you imagine that reunion? Son and Father embracing. .the love, the emotions. BTW: I love how Joseph wept throughout this story. That he was so overcome with emotion. Ok, having been told a few years ago I was too emotional after a tragic experience, I love seeing how our heroes of the Bible expressed emotion in situations where tears are warranted. (Ok, two broken feet= some tears I think).
Anyway, back to our guy Joseph. . . He was a Godly man who sought the Lord for guidance, he did not do the wrong thing even when presented with the opportunity, he kept his eyes focused on his God and not on earthly things. He showed his brothers' compassion and love when the world's standards would say they deserved a lot less.
19 But Joseph said to them, "Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 21 So then, don't be afraid. I will provide for you and your children." And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them. Genesis 50:19-21.
Sound familiar- go forward to the NT and a man dying on a cross. Blood draining from his wounds, beaten beyond recognition, dying a death meant for criminals as his earthly mother watched and his father turned away. . . and yet, his response to this situation? "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Luke 23:34a
Powerful Words. . . Powerful Players in God's Perfect Plan. . . How do you play in God's work? How do the trials you are enduring benefit the Lord? How do the situations you are in (or how will they) bring you to a better place or be used to better the kingdom? I desire to have kingdom impact with my life and I hope you long for the same.
Take it all to the throne of the one who cares, the one who loves you enough to die for you. . . and he will show you the answers!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Laughing at God. . .

I am participating in the 90Days to reading the bible challenge. So far, I am on target. Granted, I have been off the last 3 days of the challenge, so we will really see when I return to work about balancing the time.
I have read from the beginning to Joseph and Potiphar's Wife. Two parts have really spoken to me over the past few days. . .
One is when Sarah laughs at the thought of her having a child. Me, she thinks, ME?? As old as I am? Can't you picture that scene? Her listening at the entrance to the tent and overhearing from the LORD that she will have a child.
Genesis 18:11-15 (NIV)
11 Abraham and Sarah were already old and well advanced in years, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my master is old, will I now have this pleasure?"
13 Then the LORD said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh and say, 'Will I really have a child, now that I am old?' 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD ? I will return to you at the appointed time next year and Sarah will have a son."
15 Sarah was afraid, so she lied and said, "I did not laugh."
But he said, "Yes, you did laugh."
How often are we like Sarah and doubt the Lord? How often am I like Sarah? God clearly has told me something over the past year. I have been in prayer for two situations, he has clearly told me that he will handle those situations. Yet, Satan, loves to encourage us to doubt God's promises. He knows what buttons to push, what areas contain our weakness, our troubles and our fears.
His word clearly states "IS ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR THE LORD?" Is any illness too hard for him to heal? Is any financial situation too hard for him to solve? Is there any worry/concern/fear that he can't handle? My saying for 2009 has been MY GOD IS ABLE. . . and I think that will carry over to 2010. He is able. He is able to heal, he is able to meet all our needs, he is able to answer prayer, he is able to solve any quarrel, solve any heartbreak, fix any situation. HE IS ABLE!
How often do we fail to give God all the glory and credit? How often do we forget that God loves us enough to meet our needs? God has met several needs for me in the past few years, and for that, I am grateful. Yet, often I tend to forget his promise. Stress may come out and worry likes to sneak in. . . And, I will use those times to pray harder, and to sit still and listen to his word.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Look what arrived on 12/31!!!
Monday, December 28, 2009
Bible in 90 Days. . .

I am enjoying a nice afternoon off. My 87 (almost 88) year old grandmother is here. We are enjoying some time together.
I am excited about joining Reading the Bible in 90 Days!
I need this time of fellowship with my Lord and I can't wait to see all he chooses to reveal to me. I am also up for the challenge. . . and look forward to recording my progress.
I plan to do weekly updates on my progress.
Labels:
90 Day Bible Challenge,
Blessings,
Faith Lessons
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A girl's gotta have. . .
A sanctuary.
Scripture I'm workin' on learning. . .
Isaiah 55:8 (New International Version)8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.
Blessed is she who believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished. Luke 1:45 NIV
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24
Malachi 4:6a "I the LORD do not change."
"You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
John 13:7
1 Peter 5:7
Psalm 56:3-4
3 When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
4 In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?
Psalm 19:14
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Psalm 145:3
Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
Isaiah 30:21
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."
Blessed is she who believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished. Luke 1:45 NIV
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24
Malachi 4:6a "I the LORD do not change."
"You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
John 13:7
"Humble yourself before the Lord, and he will lift you up." James 4:10
"Cast your anxiety on him because he cares for you."1 Peter 5:7
Psalm 56:3-4
3 When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
4 In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?
Psalm 19:14
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Psalm 145:3
Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
Isaiah 30:21
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."
Ephesians 5:20 "always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Ephesians 5:29-30 "After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church— 30for we are members of his body. "























